Ode to the 1911: Pistol of the century - 102 years and going strong

[imarangemaster]

If you search the history of firearms, you would be hard pressed to find another weapon, especially a handgun, that has been in full utility and popularity for over 100 years. Another Colt, the 1873 "Peacemaker" has the longevity, but nowhere near the proliferation of the venerable 1911. Even the M-1 Carbine, going strong for 71 years, isn't a close competitor.

While it now has variations with polymer and swelled, double stack mag bodies, the basic weapon and design are relatively unchanged for over a century.

I am not a 1911 aficionado, though I first carried one when I was 22, in 1974 as an MP. I shot Expert and was fond of it immediately. Since then I have owned and used a variety of 1911 variants (Remington Rand, several Auto Ordnances, a Rock Island, and several Para Ordnance double stack) , both personal, and occasionally as a LEO duty weapon (though "cocked and locked semi's were generally not authorized)..

As my gun buying years are starting to fade, a 1911 was one I had to own again.

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